Anishinabek will be paying tribute on Remembrance Day to generations of warriors who have put their lives at risk in defence of their First Nations and Canada.

"Going back to great leaders like Pontiac, the Anishinabek can point to a proud heritage of warriors who protected our citizens from their enemies,” said Glen Hare, Deputy Grand Chief of the Anishinabek Nation.

"The last traditional chief at Alderville-- John Shawundais (Sunday) -- was one of many warriors who joined Tecumseh's confederacy to help the British successfully fend off American invaders in the War of 1812. In World War I, Francis Pegahmagabow of Wasauksing won the Military Medal three times for battlefield heroism - no other enlisted Canadian soldier has ever done that."

Hare said each of the 39 member communities of the Anishinabek Nation can name citizens who have honoured the 1764 Treaty of Niagara and fought for the Crown in international conflicts in which Canada has been involved.

“The list goes on – Clifford George from Stoney Point and Daisia Nebenionquit from Atikameksheng Anishnawbek served with distinction in World War II. Right now Anishinabek are defending their homelands in Canadian uniforms around the world.

“We also remember those left behind. Beatrice Faubert Whiteduck of Nipissing First Nation is a perennial Silver Cross Mother. At the age of 31 she was left widowed to raise nine children when her husband Lawrence was killed in action August 8, 1944 in France.

“There are many others we could name from all across Anishinabek territory.

The Deputy Grand Council Chief said it is appropriate to remember these brave men and women on the first anniversary of Canada’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“We call on Canada to respect our rights and to live up to the promises made to us by the Crown at Niagara in 1764. We were told we would be treated on a nation-to-nation basis, that our lands would be inviolable, and that we would never be poor.

“We are still waiting for Canada to keep its word.”

The Anishinabek Nation established the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a political advocate for 39 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 55,000

people. The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

London, ON –The Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians (AIAI) would like to honour and pay special tribute to all First Nations Veterans and Warriors on Remembrance Day.

“First Nation communities have a very long, proud and storied military presence and this will undoubtedly continue”, stated Grand Chief Denise Stonefish. This tradition is recorded in Canada all the way back to the War of 1812, where the alliance of First Nations and Canadian soldiers was vital to halting an American attack.

Further examples of this alliance exist through every major conflict that Canada has been involved in since its formation. During both World Wars, many First Nation communities had large percentages of their populations volunteer to fight alongside their Canadian counterparts, despite not being subject to conscription. This is but one example of the willingness of First Nations to make the ultimate sacrifice for their traditional territories along with their allies.

AIAI would also like to see a greater degree of gender equality in regards to recognition of accomplishments and sacrifice. Often overlooked, First Nations women have made considerable effort during war and peace time. These women were Comrades in Arms not only working in hospitals and medical posts, but also serving in areas of transportation, communications, mechanical, parachute rigging, administration and photography.

Grand Chief Stonefish emphasizes, “Our First Nations military brothers and sisters deserve our utmost respect and admiration in defending our homelands. Their spirits, both living and moved on will continue to guide and watch over us.”

AIAI is mandated as a political territorial organization to defend and enhance the Aboriginal and Treaty rights of its eight member First Nations. Their website may be visited at www.aiai.on.ca

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo this week met with Yukon First Nation leaders and veterans and had the opportunity to personally honour the many contributions of World War II First Nation veterans including, Alex Van Bibber, a member of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations.

“We honour all First Nation veterans and their incredible contributions. I am always deeply appreciative and inspired by our veterans. Alex is one of our most decorated World War II First Nation veterans,” National Chief Atleo stated. “Heserved Canada with dignity and passionand has been a role model looked upon for many years in the Yukon as a true keeper of the land. He symbolizesour manyveterans and the tremendous contributions they have made and continue to make to their First Nations and to all of Canada.”

All First Nations leaders stand with our veterans in seeking full recognition of their roles in serving this country. We advocate strongly for their full inclusion in the benefits owed to them equally as withall veterans. First Nation veterans embody the fulfillment of our promises in Treaty relations – a solemn commitment to alliance and mutual respect. Our veterans honour our Treaty responsibilities and we seek this same recognition and respect from Canada.”

Alex Van Bibber was born on the banks of the Pelly River in April of 1916 and is a citizen of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. He has taught several generations to love and respect the land. A trapper, outfitter, teacher, guide and leader, hislife work has influenced many. Alex served as a member of the Canadian Rangers since its inception in 1947 and he received the Order of Canada in 1992 in recognition of his dedication to the community and a lifetime of outstanding achievements.Alex is an active and valued participant in the Assembly of First Nations’ veteran’s activities.

The Assembly of First Nations proudly supports all First Nation veterans and their families as First Nations from coast-to-coast-to coast gather in ceremony to pay their humble respects to the remarkable dedication of veterans of the past and of today.